Petrucci has started both Posh's Championship fixtures since joining the club on a month-long deal on January 9.

Ferguson signed defender Scott Wootton from United on the same day on a deal until the end of the season and hopes to keep Petrucci at London Road for the same length of time.

"He is, by definition of where he came from, a very good footballer and he loves being at this club," said Ferguson after his side's 1-1 home draw against Hull on Saturday.

"We only have him for a month at first, but I will definitely try and extend the loan."

Ferguson added: "We have brought Davide Petrucci here to play. He got very frustrated with himself in the second-half (against Hull) which is why I took him off, but we have to bear in mind that he has never been out on loan before."

till I suppose it still gives him at least another year in the job. By the time it comes around , he can always make up another excuse. First it was 3 months , then a year .....Next year ? Whats his excuse with Van Persie ?